Union Home Minister Amit Shah lauded Solicitor General Tushar Mehta for bringing wit, satire, and humanity into legal literature, while speaking at the launch of Mehta’s books “The Bench, the Bar and the Bizarre” and “The Lawful and the Awful” at Bharat Mandapam.
Addressing a packed gathering comprising members of the judiciary, senior advocates, legal luminaries, and policymakers, Shah said the books demonstrate how law and humour can coexist meaningfully, making legal discourse more accessible and relatable.
Beginning his address on a lighter note, Shri Amit Shah remarked that those expecting a political or controversial speech would be disappointed, as the evening was dedicated entirely to literature, law, and thoughtful reflection.
Praising Mr Mehta’s literary effort, Shri Shah said that balancing a demanding legal career with serious writing was itself an extraordinary achievement. He noted that while the Solicitor General is widely known for his courtroom advocacy and constitutional expertise, the books reveal another dimension of his personality that of a keen observer and storyteller.
The Home Minister emphasised that India’s democratic structure has remained strong because it protects debate, dialogue, and the expression of differing opinions. According to him, institutions flourish not by silencing criticism, but by encouraging meaningful discussion and introspection.
He observed that the books do much more than narrate amusing courtroom incidents. Through humour and satire, they provoke reflection on institutional culture, advocacy, ethics, and the evolving justice delivery system.
He particularly appreciated the references to emerging technologies and contemporary legal challenges, noting that the books simplify complex issues such as Artificial Intelligence and changing courtroom practices through engaging anecdotes and relatable examples.
Speaking about the relationship between tradition and modernity, Shah remarked that experience and technology should not be viewed as opposing forces. Instead, he said, institutions progress when both work together in balance, a principle deeply embedded in the constitutional framework itself.
The Home Minister also underlined the importance of humour in public institutions, observing that it helps humanise systems often viewed as distant or intimidating.
Describing the books as both entertaining and insightful, Shri Amit Shah said they serve as a reminder that the legal profession, despite its seriousness, also contains moments of warmth, absurdity, and humanity.
He congratulated Mr Tushar Mehta on the release of both books and expressed confidence that the works would resonate not only with members of the legal fraternity, but also with ordinary readers interested in understanding the lighter side of the justice system.